The moment after Chivas USA goalkeeper and captain Dan Kennedy was shown a straight red in last Sunday’s loss at Sporting Kansas City and was sent off in the 54th minute, he immediately turned to center back Joaquin Velazquez to hand him the captain’s arm band.

Kennedy was sent off after the referee deemed he drew too much contact on Sporting’s Paolo Nagamura as he crossed into the box in a brief one-on-one meeting, and for the first time all season, someone other than Kennedy assumed the role of captain for Head Coach Jose Luis Sanchez Sola’s squad. Though Manager Chelís has not yet indicated who will be named team captain for next Sunday’s match at Portland, Velazquez, in his first season in MLS, is as good a candidate as any. At 37 years of age the veteran of Mexico’s Primera Division knows that demonstrating leadership can be done in many subtle ways day in and day out.

“The biggest leadership skill is when someone first displays what they can do, and what they are asked to do,” said Velazquez. “I can’t demand or yell at someone unless I lead by actions. I try to set the example as far as effort, dedication and determination. And so far it has worked.”

Since the start of the season, Velazquez and Kennedy have worked very closely during practice and games for a Red-and-White defense that plays with uncommon three-man backline in Major League Soccer. As the centerback, Velazquez is constantly in front of Kennedy, and has often been by the goal line to deny an opponent’s shot on frame.

And just as he and the other Red-and-White defenders have been there for Kennedy, they will need to be there for goalkeeper Pat McLain, who was thrust into action when Kennedy was ejected, and who’s first taste of MLS action came trying to deny a penalty shot coming off the bench.

“It’s not the first time we’ve played together,” added Velazquez. “[McLain] knows all the defenders well so there won’t be an issue there. He’s a young guy with lots of qualities who has worked with Kennedy and the coaches for a while.”

Velazquez acknowledged that adjustments would need to be made leading up to Sunday’s match against a Portland team that is ahead by three points in the standings. And with the Timbers’ 14 goals and home field advantage, the Rojiblancos’ defense will have one of their stiffest challenges thus far.